Being in a car accident can instantly turn your life upside down. You may feel confused, scared, or even fine, but what you do right afterward is very important. This quick checklist can help you handle the accident scene calmly and protect your legal rights.

1. Prioritize people

Your health and safety are your highest priorities. Check on everyone involved and call 911 if you suspect anyone is hurt. You must stop immediately at the scene of the accident as required by Missouri law. If the crash does not involve injury or death, you are legally required to move your vehicle out of the traffic lanes to the nearest safe location if it is drivable and you can do so safely (the 'Steer It and Clear It' law).

2. Call the police

Always call the police, as an officer's report is crucial. However, the legal mandate to report the crash to law enforcement depends on the jurisdiction: Missouri requires a police report if the collision involves injury, death, or property damage estimated at $500 or more to one person. Illinois requires a police report if the crash involves injury, death, or total property damage exceeding $1,500 (or $500 if an uninsured vehicle is involved).

3. Do not overshare

This step is critical for protecting any future claim. You should never admit fault, even if you are just being polite. In general terms:

● Do not apologize in a way that admits fault, just to be nice.

● Do not say "I'm okay" or discuss details of the crash.

● Do not give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company.

Only give the police the basic facts about what happened, such as who, what and where.

4. Collect critical information

The accident scene offers the best opportunity to collect evidence. You must try to gather as much detail as possible. Use your phone to take pictures of the damage to all cars and the surrounding environment, like road signs and skid marks. You should also collect key contact and insurance details from the other driver and any witnesses.

5. See a doctor

Do not put off seeking medical care. Adrenaline can mask pain, meaning serious injuries like a concussion or whiplash may have delayed symptoms that emerge days later. Seek prompt medical attention within a day or two and save all your records.

6. Notify your insurer

You must also report the accident to your own insurance provider as soon as you are safe and able. Give them only the basic facts you gathered at the scene, and do not offer your opinion on who was at fault. Having skilled legal representation can help you through this process and make sure you recover the compensation you deserve.